Two new documentaries focus on the power of the arts to inspire people in ways that have absolutely nothing to do with "pulling yourself up by your bootstraps." Instead, they show how the arts can give disadvantaged youth hope for brighter futures and more meaningful lives.

What began as a bit of a prank -- playing mariachi style when The Bronx was asked to do an unplugged set a few years ago -- has turned into a journey of learning the music, producing two albums and going on tour as both bands.

The Americana band, which consists of three Wheelers (Nolan, Tyler, and Patrick) and lifelong pal A.J. Molyneaux and Danny Matthews, have been on a roll ever since they released their debut album "Portraits" last summer.

Okay, it's coming on Cinco de Mayo, so it's only logical to do a blog post about something Mexican. But the truth is, I really like the music of Rana Santacruz on its own terms, which are solidly Pan-American.